Hidden amongst the urban sprawl of north London lies Rowley Green Common a six-hectare haven of natural beauty. This unassuming patch of land boasts a history as rich and layered as its diverse ecosystem. Rowley Green Common isn’t just any common; it’s a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation.
Imagine the scene in the 1940s. Cattle grazed peacefully across the common. Soldiers marched across this very ground during World War II. The land holds the echoes of these activities. It’s a testament to London’s ever-changing landscape.
Rowley Green Common is primarily woodland and heathland. Yet its true treasure is its peat bog. One of the very few remaining in London this bog shelters rare star sedge. Imagine the delicate beauty of this plant thriving in this unique environment. The bog’s existence is a testament to the resilience of nature. Ancient hedges at least three hundred years old border the area. They stand as silent witnesses to centuries of change. A large pond adds to the botanical richness of the area.
The story of Rowley Green Common is one of transformation. It was once part of Shenleybury Manor in Hertfordshire. Gravel extraction created ponds and bog hollows. These excavations inadvertently shaped the landscape we see today. It became public open space in 1934. The Barnet Urban District Council purchased the land from the Lord of the Manor. In 1991 Rowley Green Common became London Borough of Barnet’s first Local Nature Reserve.
Today Rowley Green Common invites you to explore its wonders. Access is easy from Rowley Lane next to Rowley Green Farm. Take a moment to appreciate the rare plants and the ancient trees. Breathe in the fresh air. Listen to the sounds of nature. Let the peaceful atmosphere wash over you. Rowley Green Common is not just a place. It’s a story waiting to be discovered a piece of history that’s alive and breathing in the heart of London.